The Pewabic Hill multi-use trail system just east of downtown Iron Mountain weaves through 85 acres of city property that once held Walpole Mine. Dickinson Trail Network, a non-profit volunteer group, has spearheaded a years-long effort to turn the neglected mine site into a top-notch trail network.

“What an amazing journey,” DTN President Chad Susott said. “From an idea on paper in 2019 to a fully sculpted, professionally built trail system.”

The 6 miles of trails — now 90% finished — feature a high elevation point at the center, making it attractive to sightseers as well as biking enthusiasts. There have been some bumps and obstacles along the way — fitting for a mountain bike trail — but strong partnerships and “Yooper grit” have seen the project through, Susott said.

In recommending a $183,200 trail grant to the city in 2021, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board pointed to Pewabic’s hilltop terrain as offering “spectacular views of downtown and the surrounding landscape.”

Following legislative approval, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer authorized funding in July 2022. As part of the package, DTN committed a $64,000 local match and the city agreed to chip in $15,000 worth of in-kind work.

Coleman Engineering Co. of Iron Mountain was hired to oversee a project initially targeted for completion in July 2024. Delays in mapping the project’s boundaries and selecting the right trail builder pushed the completion date to Nov. 15 of this year.

“One of the best decisions we made was hiring Iron Goat Trailbuilding LLC to build and sculpt these trails,” Susott said. “Steve Veihl and Bruce Laing have exceeded all expectations in turning the trail concept plan into ridable art that flows beautifully with the natural landscape.”

Veihl, who’s also served as DTN’s lead trail designer, heads the Quinnesec-based Iron Goat trail builders. A competing bid came from a nationally known firm — Rock Solid Trail Contracting LLC of Bentonville, Ark. — at $379,118. Iron Goat’s bid price was $224,662.

The trails east of Park Avenue at East B Street will offer loops with beginner level, intermediate and expert lines. Remnants of old dry stack stone foundations can be found in a few areas on site. These remnants of historical mining structures are being preserved, according to DTN.

“Huge thanks to the City of Iron Mountain, the city council, and especially City Manager Jordan Stanchina for their support every step of the way,” Susott said.